The driver of the other vehicle, Josh S. Vaughan, 34, of Neosho, suffered moderate injuries in the crash. He was also taken to Freeman West for treatment.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol said the crash happened as a southbound 2007 Nissan Pathfinder driven by Vaughan was passing another vehicle and collided head-on with an oncoming 2009 Chevrolet Malibu driven by Ward. Both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash, a patrol report noted. In accordance with state law, Vaughan, the surviving driver, was tested for blood alcohol content.